Cost:

Gulf Islands, Biking Classic

Biking in an Archipelago of Natural Wonders

Tucked between the mainland of southwestern British Columbia and Vancouver Island is an archipelago of islands known as the Canadian Gulf Islands. Each has its own charm, with natural history and coastal scenery unique in North America.

Starting from Victoria on Vancouver Island, we visit the smaller islands of Salt Spring, Galiano and Mayne as we explore the pastoral island life. Whether by bike, on foot, or by kayak, you will be seduced by this unique island charm. We’ll stay in inns and hotels that are welcoming and dine on inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Only Great Explorations:

Small groups, extraordinary guides, and authentic experiences.

Dinner at Pilgrimme, ranked one of the best restaurants in Canada.

A picnic at Lighthouse Park on Mayne Island, where whales may be spotted offshore.

Itinerary

Getting there :
Victoria, the beautiful capital city of British Columbia, is easily accessible by ferry from Vancouver, BC and Seattle, Washington or by international flight.

DAYS 1+2:Victoria -
Your hotel is included on arrival day and we will meet at 2:00 pm for bike fit and a short warm-up ride. Victoria and Vancouver Island are a cyclist's paradise with lots of options for moderate and more challenging rides. The second day we’ll ride loop out to Ten Mile Point, visiting historical sites along the way. We will dine in one of Victoria's best restaurants, a short walk from the harbour. Distance: 22 up to 43 km, elevation gain up to 134 m.*

DAYS 3+4:Salt Spring Island - Today we cycle north along a cycle path to Swartz Bay before crossing by ferry to Salt Spring Island. There is lots to see and do in Ganges, full of artisan shops and galleries. The second day we’ll ride a route that gives us outstanding views of Trincomali Channel with the snow-capped Coast Range mountains as a back-drop. There may be an option to cross to Mayne Island to explore it's treasures. Ganges is filled with excellent restaurants including several with live folk singers. It's that kind of island!

DAYS 5+6: Galiano Island - We begin the day with a water taxi to Galiano Island, and a visit to Montague Park. For hikers, we’ll lead a walk up to the top of Mt. Galiano, where views are outstanding (see photo in slideshow above). On the second day, start your day with a yoga session or swim followed by a ride out to the west end of the island where a pristine beach awaits. Finish the day with spa and massage. Dinners at the Galiano Inn will be memorable and we'll finish the trip as we always do, with a celebratory dinner with festivities. Distance D5: 40 km, elevation gain 133 m.*Distance D6: 43 km, elevation gain 322 m.*

DAY 7: Depart for Victoria or Vancouver by ferry or by sea-plane flight (additional cost).

Note: Kayaking enthusiasts will have the opportunity to kayak on each of the islands (1/2 day each). Kayak rentals are additional cost.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

What's Included

Weather

Ride Info

Map

Map of the Area

Ride Info

Victoria Weather

What's Included in the Cost of Your Trip?

Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guides and support vehicle

6 nights lodging

All breakfasts, 2 lunches, and all dinners but 1

Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums

Detailed map and route instructions

All baggage transportation

All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)

Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% must be charged on trips in Canada.

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247